Harry Kane scored his 32nd goal of the campaign as Bayern Munich came from behind to beat Stuttgart 4-2 and claim a record-extending 35th Bundesliga title.
Raphael Guerreiro, Nicolas Jackson and Alphonso Davies joined Kane on the scoresheet, while Chris Fuehrich and Chema Andres scored for the visitors as Bayern won the title with four matches to spare.
The Bavarians, who have lost just once all season, needed only a point to clinch the crown after nearest challengers Borussia Dortmund suffered a defeat at Hoffenheim on Saturday night.
But Stuttgart, chasing a place in next season’s Champions League, threatened to spoil the party when Chris Fuhrich curled home a superb effort after 21 minutes.
The hosts responded through Raphael Guerreiro 10 minutes later, before on-loan Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson – deputising for Harry Kane – put them ahead two minutes after that.
Alphonso Davies added a third nine minutes before the break, improvising well to flick the ball past Alexander Nubel from inside the area after a pass from Luis Diaz.
Coming on to replace Jamal Musiala at half-time, it took Kane seven minutes to add a fourth with his 32nd league goal of the season. while Chema Andres scored a late consolation for the visitors in the 88th minute.
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The victory seals a 13th Bundesliga title in the past 14 seasons for Bayern and keeps their hopes of winning the treble alive, with semi-finals against Bayer Leverkusen in DFB‑Pokal and Paris St-Germain in the Champions League to come later this month.
In a match where Bayern Munich had the opportunity to seal the deal and become Bundesliga champions, Kompany opted for significant rotation and there were some solid performances from depth players such as Raphaël Guerreiro who allowed players such as Michael Olise to rest. Not only did this benefit the overworked players but fresh players such as Guerreiro and Alphonso Davies had good games.
As great as it feels to win the league, this was pretty much wrapped up for the last few weeks. While it is time for celebration now, the true victory is keeping the squad fit and healthy for the big matches coming down the stretch.
Jackson is arguably the most criticized player in this team, and often times for good reason. However, Jackson looked solid today in Kane’s place. Was it enough to extend Jackson in Munich? No. However, it’s a good sign as Jackson will likely start again here in the Bundesliga.
From the very start of the season, this year has felt unique. The summer signings have been massively important for the club and Kompany’s side is operating at a different level at the moment. While losing Gnabry is a tough blow, you’d have to pick Bayern as favorites to still win the treble.
PUNCH
